“Mark Hayes (b. 1953) led the second half in performance of his works: the New York premiere of The Gettysburg Address and the World Premiere of his Requiem. About The Gettysburg Address, Mr. Hayes in his program notes writes, “…the challenge of creating something musically profound was overwhelming.” These ten sentences are filled with sadness, hope, challenge, and triumph in what is probably the most famous speech in American History. Mr. Hayes’ conception captures all of these elements, from the bold opening, played with a brash exuberance, to the somber colors of the sorrows of war, to the final build-up in a martial style culminating with repeated declarations of “for the people” from the chorus.  It is a powerful work that does justice to Lincoln’s immortal words. After this stirring piece, it was time to pull back into a quieter, contemplative mood, for which the Requiem from Mr. Hayes filled the bill…The Agnus Dei was to this listener the highlight of the work, showing Mr. Hayes expressive melodic gifts…”
Jeffrey Williams 
New York Concert Review; New York, NY

“I have worked with Mark Hayes as an accompanist and in commissions, rehearsals, concerts and recordings with all my choruses, but most importantly, he is my friend.  His music always speaks to the meaning of the Word and it is as meaningful to sing as it is to hear.  Audiences throng to hear his concerts and they always walk away enhanced from the experience.”
Charles Bruffy
Artistic Director, Kansas City Chorale, Phoenix Chorale and Kansas City Symphony Chorus, Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church

“As of this writing, my Lorenz career is 4,782 days old. There are times when I feel like I’ve had at least this many different jobs within our great company. I’ve enjoyed nearly every aspect of all of them, but my favorites have one thing in common—I’ve been working as part of team. I’m a team guy, it’s what I love, and I can say, without hyperbole or exaggeration, that I would pick Mark Hayes to be on any and every team that I’m a part of it. And that’s not just because of his amazing compositional gifts. Sure, that would come at handy in parties, but Mark’s heart is what truly sets him apart. It drives his inspiring self-actualization and encourages his genuine care for others. That’s a rare combination, and rarer still in Mark, who exudes both of those qualities at a high and consistent level. That—that’s what makes a star an all-star teammate. Here’s hoping my luck holds and I’ll have Mark on my team for at least another 4,782 days.”
Kris Kropff
President, Music Publishing, The Lorenz Corporation

“I consider creating with Mark Hayes live on stage, or in the recording studio an absolute honor. He is truly a rare musical gem, and I am constantly amazed by his artistry. Mark’s music touches your heart and soul. I am so blessed to have him in my life.”
Monique Danielle
Vocalist, Recording Artist

“Mark Hayes is a composer who embodies the best in his field. His work is fresh, heart-felt and wonderfully crafted …choirs love singing it!”
Kevin McBeth
Associate Conductor – St. Louis Symphony Orchestra
Music Director – Manchester United Methodist Church

“Mark Hayes was and is a God send to me.  His patience, understanding, and expertise have given me the inspiration to find my voice.”              
Vicki Tucker Courtney
Composer, Arranger and former student of Mark Hayes

“As a workshop presenter for piano teacher organizations, Mark is always well prepared, engaging and professional on every level. Being a church pianist myself, I couldn’t live without his top-notch arrangements every week! He is a master at getting the best out of singers in a timely and efficient way.  A+ musician, presenter, composer/arranger, choral conductor, friend.”
Melody D. Stroth
Nationally Certified Teacher of Music, 2010 KMTA Outstanding Teacher of the Year, 2010 Missouri Federation of Music Clubs Church Musician of the Year